How to Finish Wood
Repeat the sanding process with a progressively finer grain, until you've reached anywhere between 150 and 180-grit. Wet the wood with paint thinner. If it is dark enough at this point, you can move ahead and apply only a finish. If a stain dries too quickly, it can be re-liquefied by applying more stain. Always complete one surface at a time. Water-based finishes are healthier, non-flammable, and environmentally friendly. But water swells wood fibers, often unevenly, and makes some stick up from the wood surface. A water-based finish can turn these into fine but noticeable hard, finished bristles.[1] Remove these before applying it to create an even surface the finish can smoothly level itself over. Wipe down the surface with a wet rag. Allow it to dry. Sand it lightly with very fine sandpaper to scrape off the bristles - a few degrees off the direction of the grain to not allow them to settle back into the recesses from which they arose, and not more than necessary so as not to expose new wood to form more bristles.[2]
You can also carefully sand off any bristles that appear after the first finish coat[3]. Apply at least two more coats for a thorough, even finish over the first coat, which will be more heavily sanded than usual for a finish coat.
Apply a finish to protect the wood from water damage, dirt, or stains,
Pandora Charms.
Water-based polyurethane is the best finish for bare wood, as it highlights the features of the wood itself, such as the grain and the natural color.
Oil-based polyurethane is the best finish to apply to increase durability in combination with a stain.
Wiping varnish (oil-based polyurethane thinned 50% with paint thinner) is the best application for stained, decorative pieces. It is easy to apply flawlessly, but will not help a piece withstand wear and tear.
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